Shear Strengthening of Reinforced Concrete (RC) beams using Fiber Reinforced Polymer

In the last 20 years or so, Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP) have been developed as cost
effective materials that can be used in the construction field particularly in the reinforcement of
structural elements in buildings and bridges. Some of the advantages that FRP composites bring
include good corrosion resistance and due to their light weight FRP's provide ease in handling
for site works.
This report is a summary of tasks done and relevant to a study made on 'Shear Strengthening of
Reinforced Concrete (RC) Beams using Fiber Reinforced Polymers' by the author under the
supervision of Dr. Teo Wee.
This report describes the outcomes obtained from experiments made to understand the shear
contribution of externally bonded Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer on RC beams at 90, 45 and
25 degrees. Parameters such as shear span-to-depth ratio, CFRP orientation against the
longitudinal axis particularly at shallower angles were the focus of this study. The analysis of
this study is comprised of comparisons done from observing the shear behavior of externally
strengthened and non-strengthened RC beams. In addition shear contribution predictions using
ACI 440 formulas were also compared with data from the experiment. Tests results showed
significant improvements in terms of ductility, superb cracking control particularly when CFRP
plates are used at shallower angles. A few recommendations in terms of refining the parameters
used for better results are also included in this study.